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| According to the latest leak, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 features a redesign, somewhat in the style of the Galaxy Watch 9 Classic, which ultimately never launched. |
New leaks reveal significant design overhauls, color options, and software updates for Samsung's upcoming wearables—but fans of the rotating bezel may be disappointed.
As Samsung prepares for its traditional July Unpacked event, a fresh wave of leaks is painting a clearer picture of what to expect from the company's next-generation smartwatches. According to reliable tipster GalaxyTechie on X, the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 is getting a substantial redesign, while rumors of a Galaxy Watch 9 Classic appear to have been premature.
No Galaxy Watch 9 Classic in 2026
Perhaps the most disappointing news for Samsung wearable enthusiasts is the apparent cancellation of a Classic variant this year. Contrary to earlier speculation that suggested a return of the rotating bezel, GalaxyTechie's latest information indicates there will be no successor to the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic in 2026.
This decision aligns with Samsung's typical release schedule, which has seen Classic models appear every other generation. The possibility of a missing Classic version was recently hinted at in analysis of FCC documents, but this latest leak appears to confirm the bad news for fans of the mechanical rotating bezel.
Galaxy Watch Ultra2: A Boxier Design with Classic Elements
Instead of a Classic model, Samsung appears to be channeling its design efforts into the Galaxy Watch Ultra2. According to the leaks, the premium wearable will feature a noticeably "boxier" design that borrows aesthetic elements from traditional timepieces.
The most striking change is the inclusion of numbers 1–12 on the bezel, giving the smartwatch a more traditional watch face appearance. However, it remains unconfirmed whether this bezel will actually rotate—a feature that would have pleased Classic enthusiasts.
The display is also getting an upgrade, with thinner bezels that should provide a more immersive viewing experience. The right side of the watch will see button redesigns, with the round Quick button being replaced by a wider button featuring a new orange accent color.
New Color Options and Straps
Color customization appears to be a priority for the 2025 refresh. The base model—whether referring to the Galaxy Watch 9 or Ultra2—will reportedly be available in beige, marking a departure from Samsung's traditional darker tones.
Additional color variants include:
- A black version paired with a bluish strap
- A silver version complemented by a green strap
These new color combinations suggest Samsung is targeting fashion-conscious consumers who want their smartwatch to double as a style accessory.
Software and Health Features
The hardware changes are complemented by significant software updates. The leaks point to new watch faces and features coming with One UI 9 Watch, Samsung's proprietary wearable operating system. Perhaps most significantly, a complete redesign of Samsung Health is expected, which could revolutionize how users interact with their fitness and wellness data.
9to5Google's coverage of the leaks also suggests the Ultra2's updated button design will be integrated into the compass app and watch faces, indicating deeper hardware-software integration.
What This Means for Samsung's Wearable Strategy
By discontinuing the Classic line—at least for this generation—Samsung appears to be consolidating its wearable offerings around the Ultra and standard models. The design elements borrowed from classic watches for the Ultra2 suggest Samsung is attempting to bridge the gap between traditional watch aesthetics and modern smartwatch functionality.
The move could also indicate that Samsung sees the Ultra series as its flagship line, deserving of the design attention that previously went to the Classic models. Whether this strategy will pay off remains to be seen, but the redesigned Ultra2 certainly looks set to make a statement.
Expected Launch Timeline
With Samsung's Unpacked events typically occurring in July or August, consumers can expect official announcements within the coming weeks. As always, these leaks should be taken with caution until Samsung makes its official announcement, but the consistency across multiple sources suggests these details are likely accurate.
Final Thoughts
While the absence of a Galaxy Watch 9 Classic will disappoint some fans, the extensive redesign of the Ultra2 and the software improvements across the board suggest Samsung is committed to innovation in its wearable lineup. The combination of traditional design elements with modern smartwatch functionality could create a compelling product that appeals to both tech enthusiasts and style-conscious consumers.
Stay tuned for official announcements from Samsung in the coming weeks, which will confirm these details and reveal any additional features not covered in the current leaks.
What do you think about Samsung's decision to skip the Classic model this year? Would you prefer a rotating bezel or are you excited about the Ultra2's new design? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source : GalaxyTechie (1, 2) via 9to5Google
